I was forcibly reminded of this yesterday, when my great-niece arrived to stay with us. We hadn't seen her for 5 years. Back then, she was a shy 14 year-old, with long, silky blonde hair and a clear, beautiful complexion. Imagine the my shock when she arrived yesterday.....I'm informed that she is an "emo" (look it up!). My first thought was "Goth". Dearly Beloved thought "Punk rocker/bikie". Whatever the label, she now sports jet black locks, tattoos, masses of makeup, and strange black clothing. After the initial double take, we discovered that she is still the same gentle, clever, witty and loveable girl that she was 5 years ago. It was particularly fascinating to watch this apparition playing happily and unselfconsciously with Holly and Simon. I really MUST remember not to judge by appearances!
